Heritage restoration craftsperson

Owners of century homes, heritage property owners, churches and community groups, heritage trusts, municipalities and property managers of older buildings.

Quoted price per job or day rate, plus materials. Specialist skills let you charge more than general renovation, and work often comes by referral from heritage planners and architects.

• Skilled in a building trade such as carpentry, masonry or plastering
• Patience and attention to detail
• Understanding of traditional materials and methods
• Quoting and scheduling jobs

• Check your provincial rules on trade certification, such as Red Seal trades, for the work you plan to do
• Commercial general liability insurance, and WCB/WSIB coverage once you hire help (rules vary by province)
• Older buildings can contain lead paint and asbestos, so check safe handling and testing rules before starting
• Designated heritage properties may need municipal approval for changes, so check permits before quoting
• Work is seasonal in colder regions, especially exterior masonry, so plan for winter

Estimates suggest startup costs typically around $5,000 to $25,000 CAD, depending on the trade you specialize in, your tools and your insurance. Many people start with one or two specialties, such as wood windows or masonry.

Estimates suggest monthly revenue typically around $3,000 to $14,000 CAD, depending on your specialty and how many jobs you take. Work is seasonal in colder regions, especially exterior masonry, so plan for winter.

Check your provincial rules on trade certification, such as Red Seal trades. Also check lead paint and asbestos testing and handling rules, municipal approval for designated heritage properties, and liability insurance and WCB/WSIB coverage if you hire help.